heckler’s veto

heckler’s veto n. the cancellation or suppression of a public event (such as a discussion, speech, or rally) due to (threat of) interruptions, protests, or violence. Etymological Note: The origin of the term given in the 1977 citation has not been verified. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)

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Further reading

The Sweet Reluctance of Pages

A memorable commencement speech by author Kurt Vonnegut celebrates books and “the sweet reluctance of their pages when you turn them with your sensitive fingertips.” This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of “The Sweet Reluctance of Pages”...

Selling Wolf Tickets

If you’re selling wolf tickets (or woof tickets), you’re not being truthful. The expression may arise from the old story about the boy who cried Wolf! when in fact there was none around. This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of “Selling...

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